“Sometimes it’s hard to believe that mosquito bites, particularly in the fall, are anything other than a minor annoyance,” said Dr. Al DeMaria, State Epidemiologist. “We tell people about these infections to remind them that there can be serious consequences to mosquito bites, even in the fall; but there are steps people can take to protect themselves and their loved ones.

This is the third human case of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts this year. There were seven such cases last year.

Dr. DeMaria added that the extended stretch of warm weather is concerning.

“People may be outside so much more than usual this time of year. Use mosquito repellent and clothing and move indoors if you have to; just don’t get bitten,” said Dr. DeMaria.